Oxford DAC
Church House, Diocese of Oxford

The Diocese of Oxford has bought a modern office building at Langford Locks, Kidlington in Oxfordshire. One of the meeting rooms has been transformed to become a chapel for regular prayers and occasional Communion services in the building, which has been named Church House Oxford. The move was taken after much deliberation comes because the Diocese had outgrown its premises in North Hinksey, Oxford.

One of the main drivers behind the new office was the expansion of the education team due to the changed political landscape. The team needs to ensure that the Diocese can continue in its historic mission to serve the community through its 284 schools. The building is also home to the Oxford Diocesan Schools Trust (ODST), a growing multi-academy trust that needs an increasing amount of office space.

Other staff, including the Archdeacons of Oxford and Dorchester, and the Diocesan Director of Ordinands, are also now based at Church House Oxford. At the heart of the new office is the chapel, a calm, bright and peaceful space, providing sanctuary for diocesan workers during their busy working day. The chapel features lovely candle holders made from local willow in North Hinksey, handmade with a gouge and crook knife. The cross was made by Jonathan Hemingray Sculpture of Derby.

The furniture for the chapel was designed and made by Treske, including six three-seat stacking St Mary’s benches in oak and a bespoke altar design. The benches were exactly the same as those created for Holy Trinity Church in Prestwood, Great Missenden (also in the Diocese of Oxford).

We chose Treske because we knew the quality of their work and that it would enhance our lovely chapel.”